Take Stock program seeking mentors

Posted: May 8, 2013 - 9:49pm

Special to The Record

The St. Johns County Education Foundation is looking for volunteers who are interested in being a positive influence in a student’s life through Take Stock in Children. TSIC is a state-wide organization that strives to “break the cycle of poverty one child at a time” by offering guidance, scholarship, mentors and hope. SJCEF is looking for those who have the time to allocate one hour a week during the school year to meet with a student on their school’s campus and be a listening ear. The main goals are to help with college preparations, career exploration, and provide guidance in navigating the middle and high school years.

“My mentor is great. Every time I see her she is very open about what we talk about. She is supportive and caring of me, and it always makes me happy when I see her,” said Janae, a high school sophomore, about her mentor.

TSIC has achieved success in increasing high school graduation rates and expanding college enrollment opportunities for qualified students. Mentors meet with their student starting in late seventh grade and continue through their senior year.

Many of these students have been in TSIC since middle school and are now going onto college with a long list of impressive accolades and extensive scholarships.

In addition 28 new students were sworn into the program. This is the largest number of inductees the program has ever had in St. Johns County. Each of these students needs to be paired with a caring mentor who can help them make the journey to a successful future after high school.

For information on the program or to become a mentor contact the SJCEF’s coordinator, Marci Poston, postonm@stjohns.k12.fl.us or 547-7121.